A new public use cabin is now open near Ward Lake. The S’igedi Aas Hidi cabin is the first U.S. Forest Service cabin built on the Ketchikan road system — the only other public use cabin accessible by car, located at Settler’s Cove, is managed by the Department of Natural Resources.
The name, which translates to Beaver House, was provided by the Ketchikan Indian Community Tlingit Language Program.
The Forest Service and the National Forest Foundation partnered on the cabin in an effort to expand and improve recreation opportunities across the state. That initiative focuses on building accessible cabins in easy to reach locations. It also aims to strengthen local economies. The cabin is made from Western Redcedar and Sitka Spruce harvested in Southeast Alaska and features a covered deck, picnic table and fire ring.
This is the third public use cabin in Southeast since the partnership launched in 2024. The National Forest Foundation said in a statement that plans are in the works for more cabins later this summer. A contract was recently awarded for a new cabin in Wrangell, and there are plans for new facilities near Petersburg, Hoonah, Yakutat, Sitka, and Ketchikan.
The S’igedi Aas Hidi cabin is located at Signal Creek Campground and became available for rent on June 1. Reservations can be made online at www.recreation.gov.
